WABO Legislative Resources
Each year, legislators gather to talk about issues affecting Washington and vote on bills that may become new state laws.
During the 2026 legislative session, WABO’s Government Relations Committee met with stakeholders, and educational resources were developed to explain the newly adopted tower crane permitting rules.
Due to the passage of HB 2022, Washington State has specific guidelines addressing crane safety. Visit towercranereform.org to learn more.
Washington State Elections
November 12, 2025
After several days of ballot returns, statewide voter turnout stands at 38.91%. Democrats prevailed in all contested legislative races against Republican opponents, and in the two Democrat-versus-Democrat contests, the more progressive candidates also prevailed. With ballots now largely counted, voters have signaled confidence in their state elected officials, sending appointed legislators back to Olympia to continue serving the citizens of Washington.
While some voter behavior may reflect the broader federal environment, including reactions to the ongoing shutdown and views of the current president, the Washington results point to a consistent theme: the majority parties have received a reaffirmation of public support and can continue advancing their priorities heading into the 2026 session.
Legislative Races
- 5th LD – Senate (Hunt v. Magendanz): AppointedDemocrat Victoria Hunt will retain her senate seat.
- 26th LD – Senate (Krishnadasan v. Caldier): Appointed Democrat Deborah Krishnadasan will retain her senate seat.
- 33rd LD – House (Obras v. Schilling): Appointed Democratic Rep. Edwin Obras will retain his house seat.
- 48th LD – Senate (Slatter v. Walen): Appointed Democrat Sen. Vandana Slatter will retain her senate seat.
- 41st LD – House (Zahn v. Whitney): Appointed Democrat Rep. Janice Zahn will retain her house seat.
- 48th LD – House (Salahuddin v. Ellis): Appointed Democrat Rep. Osman Salahuddin will retain his house seat.
Local Races
- Seattle Mayor: Katie Wilson will prevail over incumbent Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell. While both Democrats, Wilson ran on a more progressive platform. This race may end up in a recount, however election analysis are reporting that it is mathematically impossible for Harrel to catch up.
- King County Executive: Councilmember Girmay Zahilay will prevail over Councilmember Claudia Balducci. While both Democrats, Zahilay ran on a more progressive platform.
- Tacoma Mayor: Former Councilmember Anders Ibsen will prevail against current Councilmember John Hines. While both Democrats, Ibsen ran on a more progressive platform.
- Seattle – Proposition 2 (Business Tax Rewrite): Seattle voters have decided on a measure to restructure the city’s business tax system – lowering taxes for most small and mid-sized businesses while increasing rates larger businesses. Proposition 2 has passed.
- Olympia – Proposition 1 (“Worker’s Bill of Rights”): Olympia voters have decided on Proposition 1, a local initiative that would raise the city’s minimum wage above the state level and establish additional employment related requirements. Proposition 2 has failed.
Legislative Positions
If you have any comments or suggestions for the Government Relations Chair, Tim Woodard, or our lobbyist, Marian Dacca, please email Tim Woodard or the WABO Office.